Great Barrier Reef Drive
Australia
This classic tropical coast drive follows the Captain Cook Highway from Cairns to Port Douglas, skimming rainforest-clad headlands, palm beaches, and the Coral Sea. It is one of Australia’s most accessible scenic routes, with easy stops for lookouts, swimming beaches, and reef-day-trip departures.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Cairns
Kick off beside the Coral Sea and the gateway to the reef. The drive quickly trades city streets for palms, beaches, and headlands.
- Trinity Beach
A relaxed beach suburb with a wide crescent of sand and calm tropical water. It is a good first swim or coffee stop north of Cairns.
- Palm Cove
This palm-lined village is one of the prettiest stops on the route. Stroll the esplanade and enjoy the shaded beach views.
- Ellis Beach
A quiet strip of coastline backed by rainforest and swaying palms. It feels wild and open, with big Coral Sea views.
- Wangetti Beach
A rugged beach stop with a more remote feel than the northern suburbs. The road here hugs steep hills and seaside forest.
- Port Douglas
A laid-back resort town and the main base for reef trips. Its marina, cafes, and tropical streets make a fitting finish.
- Four Mile Beach
End on Port Douglas's long sandy beach, perfect for a sunset walk. The palm-fringed shore stretches in a gentle tropical curve.
Where to Eat
- Rusty's MarketsMarket food
A Cairns institution for fresh tropical fruit, snacks, and casual bites. Go early for the best atmosphere and produce.
- Numi Cafe and RestaurantCafe
A popular Palm Cove stop for breakfast, coffee, and relaxed lunch plates. It is well placed for a break between beach walks.
- Palm Cove TavernPub
A classic easy stop for pub meals, cold drinks, and a casual coastal vibe. It suits a lunch break without leaving the main road.
- Mays Cafe and TakeawayCafe
A simple, reliable stop near the northern beaches for coffee and takeaway food. Good for a quick roadside refuel.
- The Little Larder Port DouglasCafe
A well-known Port Douglas cafe for breakfast, brunch, and strong coffee. It is a handy final stop before or after the beach.
Things to Do
- Great Barrier Reef tour from CairnsReef cruise
Join a day trip to snorkel or dive on the reef from Cairns. It is the route's biggest signature experience.
- Palm Cove JettyLookout
Walk the jetty for open views over the beach and Coral Sea. It is a quick, easy stop with great photo angles.
- Kuranda Scenic RailwayScenic railway
Ride the historic train from Cairns into the rainforest hills. It pairs well with a reef drive if you want a land-based detour.
- Four Mile Beach BoardwalkBeach walk
Take an easy walk along the long arc of sand at Port Douglas. The beach is wide, tropical, and perfect for a relaxed finish.
- Wildlife Habitat Port DouglasWildlife park
See native Australian wildlife in a tropical setting near Port Douglas. It is a good family-friendly add-on to the drive.